Not Exactly Dinner Table Talk: Why Anal Pap Smears Matter
About this episode
Dr. Ketan Thanki discusses the importance of anal Pap smears and HPV prevention in reducing cancer risk.
It may not be dinner table conversation yet, but we need to get more comfortable talking about our rear ends. Colorectal cancer has risen drastically among younger people, and now we’re seeing another concerning trend with anal cancer. For both men and women, high risk HPV has been linked to increased rates of anal cancer, and the best way to screen is through a test called an anal Pap smear. Many women find the test more comfortable than a vaginal Pap smear, and it can conveniently be done during the same visit. Although the topic can feel uncomfortable, awareness and early detection are critical. In this episode, Dr. Ketan Thanki takes the mystery (and stress) out of this important screening and explains how HPV prevention, including expanded vaccine eligibility for adults ages 26–45, can help lower cancer risk. Learn more about Ketan Thanki, MD
People in this episode
Guest: Dr. Ketan Thanki
Topics covered
- colorectal cancer
- anal cancer
- HPV
- screening
- health awareness
Keywords
- anal Pap smear
- HPV
- colorectal cancer
- anal cancer
- screening
- health awareness
- vaccine eligibility
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Memorial Care
Products: HPV vaccine
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